The ATTY2’D (pronounced “attitude”) is the result of A-Designs Audio responding to the needs and requests of audio professionals who found its smaller sibling, the two-channel ATTY line-level attenuator, highly useful but desired more channels. A-Designs Audio gave them ATTY2’D, a six-channel 1U rackmountable version of the popular ATTY with dual stereo channels and two mono channels, each with level control and mute button—particularly handy if you’re working with multiple sets of stereo monitors. Better still, featured prominently in the center of ATTY2’D’s front panel is a large rectangular-shaped master mute switch that shuts of all six channels at once—perfect for a 5.1 surround setup. In fact, the front panel is silk-screened to reflect 5.1-surround operation. Due to its 100% passive circuitry and XLR I/O, ATTY2’D easily integrates into your studio, whether you’re connecting directly to other XLR-equipped gear, studio monitors, or wiring it to a patchbay. And if you are looking for high-quality control of multi- monitor pairs, you won’t find a more affordable, practical solution than the ATTY2’D, thanks to its audiophile-quality components and passive design.

Applications:

Apart from its ability to provide seamless, transparent attenuation for any line-level device, such as CD players, talkbacks, guitar/bass amp extension speakers, or audio surge protectors, it’s particularly handy as a preamp output gain control in multi-mic recording situations. For example, when tracking drums, kick and snare often require some level control to prevent clipping the converters. However many engineers would rather not color sound with pads or recording with compression. With the proper ATTY2’D, you can maintain input levels at the sweetspot and record without any adverse affects on sound quality. Plus, if you’re using a four-channel preamp with a hot output on toms, such as an API 3124, just use ATTY2’D’s dual stereo channels along with the mono channels on kick and snare—and Bob’s your uncle. The most apparent use of ATTY2’D is for level control of multiple powered-monitor pairs. ATTY2’D’s single-knob stereo channels with individual mute buttons give you complete control over two pairs of powered monitors, while its mono channels allow you to control a subwoofer and single point-source speaker, such as an Avantone Active MixCube, for checking mono compatibility. Or, you can use the dual mono channels for a third stereo monitor pair along with Master Mute if you need to switch them off in a hurry (or simply enjoy the convenience).

ATTY2’D Adjustment:

Speaking of monitor control, ATTY2’D makes a fine level controller for a 5.1 surround system, as reflected on the front-panel surround labeling scheme: Stereo / Front; Stereo SL/SR; Mono / Center; and Mono / Sub. Whether you’re using it for multiple stereo monitors or surround, to calibrate your ATTY2’d, turn level knobs for all speakers clockwise to maximum (labeled “Cal”), then calibrate from your software or console. Always start with “Sub.” There you have it—now go and get yourself an ATTY2’D—by A-Designs Audio.